The Minnesota Timberwolves have officially exercised their fourth year options on forward Derrick Williams and point guard Ricky Rubio. It was highly expected for Rubio to get the nod, but Williams’ status with the team has been questioned over the last year or so. What do these extensions mean?

First of all, Rubio will be the cornerstone of this team for years to come if Minnesota has their way. That is quite obvious. Rubio can be one of the very best at his position if he continues to improve offensively as far as his jump shot goes. Otherwise, he’s excellent in just about every other area.

If Williams doesn’t show enough improvement to be the starting three or four this year, the Wolves will try and trade him once and for all — believe me, this is Williams’ last year to prove himself worthy of that second overall pick status. Williams lost 20 pounds this offseason in attempt to make himself more versatile. His biggest problem, though, has been consistency on offense.

Williams’ jumper needs some work in order to be considered a legitimate threat at the three. There’s no way he’ll be able to play the four at a high enough level, thus the weight loss. If he can’t improve his game as a whole — because quite honestly he needs work just about everywhere — then this will be the last you see of him in Minnesota.

The Wolves could see themselves making a couple of deals in the near future, speaking of a possible Williams trade. Kevin Love clearly won’t be back once his contract is up, as has been the assumption from everyone around the league. Minnesota will undoubtedly attempt to try and get something in return for him before they lose him for absolutely nothing.

The extensions overall were a good idea. If Williams shows enough to warrant his draft status from a year ago, the Wolves will be thrilled. If not, they will at least be able to shop him and finally grab something in return. Rubio is the future for this team, so fans can rest assured knowing that. This season will tell a lot about the future of this Minnesota team.